The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) announced a new eligibility policy requiring players to complete a one-time gene test. The updated rule will take effect on Tuesday and applies to athletes competing on the women’s professional tour.
The organization said the test will screen for the SRY gene, which helps determine biological sex. Players may complete the screening through either a cheek swab or a blood test.
New Policy Replaces Previous Eligibility Rules
Previously, the WTA allowed transgender women to compete after declaring a female gender identity. They also needed to maintain reduced testosterone levels for at least two years before competition.
However, the revised policy replaces that framework with mandatory genetic screening. According to a WTA spokesperson, player testing will begin in 2026.
The organization also pledged to protect confidentiality throughout the screening process. Moreover, officials said they would implement strict data privacy safeguards.
The WTA described the issue as sensitive and complex. Therefore, it promised to treat every player with dignity and respect during implementation.
Debate Continues Across International Sports
Currently, no transgender women compete at any level of professional tennis. Nevertheless, the policy follows similar eligibility changes across several international sports.
Former player Renee Richards competed on the women’s tour between 1977 and 1981. Later, Richards coached tennis legend Martina Navratilova.
Navratilova has strongly opposed transgender participation in women’s sports. Similarly, world number one Aryna Sabalenka previously called such competition unfair.
Meanwhile, Billie Jean King considers excluding transgender athletes discriminatory. Transgender advocacy groups also argue these policies promote discrimination against athletes.
Conversely, critics believe male puberty creates lasting physical advantages that transition cannot fully eliminate. Consequently, several governing bodies have adopted stricter eligibility standards.
World Athletics and World Boxing introduced comparable gene-testing requirements in recent years. Furthermore, the International Olympic Committee announced similar eligibility rules for women’s Olympic events in March.
